Idle and bored teenagers often get up to the worst trouble. As a parent of teenagers, you may never know that you are doing what’s best and sometimes trying to please your teen can feel like climbing an impossible mountain.

Substance abuse problems are often accompanied by many physical and psychological issues. Drugs have a detrimental effect on their bodies, and it’s no surprise that many drugs can influence the user’s mood. However, many people don’t realize that drug and alcohol use can have a negative effect on their ability to make judgments. A new study suggests that this may go beyond simply engaging in risky behavior while under the effects of drugs.

Peer pressure is an unfortunate daily reality for most children and teens. Your children are getting ready for the new school year where they will face continuous pressure from their classmates and friends. School year peer pressure is much different from summer pressure. As you help your children prepare for a new school environment, be aware of what they are facing.

It is vital for parents to understand what unconventional drug paraphernalia looks like so that if you encounter any in your child’s room, you’ll know what you’re seeing. Everyone knows what marijuana pipes and bongs look like, but could you recognize the everyday objects that drug abusers sometimes use?

Drunk drivers aren’t the only thing you need to watch out for on the road. There has been a significant rise in the number of fatal accidents, and many of the drivers responsible are testing positive for prescription drugs.

Unfortunately, the rate of prescription drug abuse among teens is rising. In 2017, 16.5% of high school seniors reported that they used prescription drugs for recreational purposes.

The combination of inexperienced drivers and prescription drugs could prove to be deadly. Here’s what you need to know about this unfortunate pattern.

Concussions are often called a “silent epidemic,” affecting thousands of teens every year. More than 173,000 children and young adults are seen by doctors every year due to brain injuries, including concussions. A study from 2013 claimed that teens who smoke pot and drink alcohol, even rarely, have more of a risk of getting a concussion than their peers who don’t participate in these illicit activities. Test Smartly Labs digs into this study to hear what the experts have to say. Continue reading “Scientists Find Connection Between Drugs & Concussions” »

During the summer, it seems like every week has a new music festival. These concerts are enjoyable and they draw in music-loving teens and adolescents across the nation. Unfortunately, music festivals can also be a hub for drug use. Continue reading “Music Festival Guide 101: Drug Slang” »